Evaluation of oral health awareness among public school children – A school-based study from Bhopal

Abstract

Background: Oral diseases such as tooth caries, gingivitis, and bad breath are still major dental health-care concern, especially in children in the developing countries. Oral disease prevalence is high in school-going children, and there is inadequate information regarding the awareness among them. To evaluate the level of oral awareness among school children, a study was carried out in middle school. Materials and Methods: The present questionnaire study included middle school children from different socioeconomic background of the socioeconomic group. The consent from the school as well as the parents/guardians of children was taken. The trained dental surgeon distributed questionnaire among the children. Completely answered questionnaire was collected. The observations were reviewed and analyzed. Results: The response rate for school children was 81.27%. It was observed the age group of 11–14 years was very well aware of oral hygiene care and maintenance 67% and 55%, respectively. Seventy percent were sure about dietary food items causing dental decay. Toothbrush and paste are the best teeth cleaning aids as per this study group analysis. Conclusion: The findings of the present study reveal different aspects specifically directed toward the current scenario of oral health awareness among middle school children. There is a need for comprehensive dental care plan for school children. School-based educational intervention should be established with a focus on oral self-care and oral health education.

Keywords

• Attitude
• awareness
• oral health
• school